Raifu Kazeem Wins Inaugural Professor A.A. Emmanuel Table Tennis Competition at FUTA
Raifu Kazeem, a student from the Department of Estate Management at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), won the inaugural Professor A.A. Emmanuel Table Tennis Competition held from September 17 to 19, 2024.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
In a spirited display of athletic prowess, Raifu Kazeem, a student from the Department of Estate Management at the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), emerged as the champion of the first Professor A.A. Emmanuel Table Tennis Competition. The tournament, held from September 17 to 19, 2024, provided a much-needed break from the rigors of academic life for students in the School of Environmental Technology.
The competition began with 16 participants, showcasing talent across various departments within the School. After intense rounds that included the Round of 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals, Kazeem faced off against Ibidapo Temitope from the Department of Architecture in a thrilling final match that captivated spectators.
Kazeem's path to victory was marked by resilience and strategy, particularly evident in his performance against Temitope, who also displayed commendable skill throughout the tournament. Both players exemplified sportsmanship, but Kazeem's consistent technique ultimately secured him the title.
Initiated by Professor Adebayo Emmanuel, the competition aimed to foster unity and engagement among students through table tennis, a sport that Professor Emmanuel himself once passionately played. With 24 years of teaching experience in tourism and recreation, he expressed his vision of creating a relaxed environment for students to bond while promoting a sense of community.
The tournament was made possible through support from alumni, friends, and university staff, and Professor Emmanuel revealed plans for a more extensive tournament in the future, complete with prizes and trophies. Participants of this edition received certificates to acknowledge their efforts.
The Vice Chancellor of FUTA, Professor Adenike Oladiji, lauded the competition as a means of strengthening community ties within the university. Represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Timothy Amos, she emphasized the significance of sports in nurturing teamwork and resilience.
Dean of Student Affairs, Professor David Oke, represented by Sub-Dean Dr. Adeniyi Okewale, also praised the initiative, highlighting its role in balancing academic commitments with recreational activities. He expressed hope for the competition's growth in subsequent editions.
Certificates were presented to the participants by the Vice Chancellor's representative, the Dean of Students, and the Head of the Department of Textile Design Technology, Professor Bolajoko Adiji. The successful execution of the Professor A.A. Emmanuel Table Tennis Competition marks a promising beginning for sporting events at FUTA, paving the way for future opportunities for students to engage in healthy competition.
